Study confirms Alcoa refinery emits 'unpleasant odours'

A new study has backed residents living near the Alcoa refinery in Wagerup, who have complained of odours from the refinery during certain weather conditions.

The Department of Environment and Conservation says air quality measurements in Wagerup have shown that plumes from the refinery tend to occur at ground level at certain times of the year.

It says it is working with Alcoa to change the way it records the emissions, and to ensure they have minimal impact on the community.

The Department's Deputy Director General Robert Atkins says while the emissions have an unpleasant effect on the community, they are not toxic.

"They get a wet, what's called a wet cement smell, and it comes from part of the plant and some people, particularly people who are more sensitive can get headaches, some people get nauseous, so basically unpleasant odours," he said.